For anyone who watched the Chicago Bears vs. the Cincinnati Bengals last week, you may have noticed a few names that you may not be familiar with yet. But you're about to be. The Bears took part in a wild contest in Cincinnati, barely squeaking by with a 47-42 win. Chicago's rookie class not only showed up; they played a significant part in the win.
There are several rookies on the Bears' 53-man roster at present; however, only two of them participated in Sunday's game at Cincinnati. In a game that turned into a coming-out party for Chicago’s young playmakers, both Kyle Monangai and Colston Loveland topped 100 yards for the first time in their careers, and they did it on the same field, on the same night.
Rookie Runs Wild
Rookie Kyle Monangai was expected to hold his share of the spotlight with lead backs D'Andre Swift and Roschon Johnson, both ruled out prior to Week 9. Monangai had shown previous promise in the weeks prior, most notably logging 81 yards on 13 carries against the Saints. That's a 6.2 yards per carry stat line and not one to pass up.
Monangai was drafted out of Rutgers in the seventh round. Chiefs RB1 Isiah Pacheco was also drafted out of Rutgers in the seventh round, and it's no secret why the two powerhouse players have drawn comparisons to one another.
Monangai has a promising future in the NFL ahead of him if he continues to run like he did against the Bengals. While Monangai was powering through the trenches, Caleb Williams and the pass game were in full effect, mainly in part due to another rookie.
Loveland Breaks Loose
For the first time in his career, Loveland led the Bears in receptions and yards, finally breaking the glass ceiling on 100 yards in a game. After starting tight end Cole Kmet was ruled out in the first half due to a concussion, the gates opened for Loveland to step into the spotlight. Loveland quickly took up the mantle, posting 118 yards on six receptions in addition to not only his first, but his second career NFL touchdowns.
Loveland was a first-round draft pick, and his production is showing why. With no clear timeline for Cole Kmet just yet, Loveland should expect some more time as TE1 and should see an uptick in his targets.
If Loveland can use this time wisely, he has a chance to earn a long-term spot on Caleb Williams' list of top targets. Colston proved he has no problem seizing the moment when it mattered, and Bears fans are hoping he can continue doing the same in the weeks to come.
The Next Wave
Though Monangai and Loveland exploded onto the scene versus the Bengals, they aren't the only rookies on the Bears roster. Wide receiver Luther Burden III is questionable after missing Week 9 due to concussion protocol.
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Though no other rookies participated in Week 9, the Bears hold many young players who are ready to earn their spot. If this game proved anything, it's not that the Bears' future is on its way - it's already here.